Planning a trip to the Colosseum in Rome? These Colosseum tips will help you make the most of your visit. From buying tickets to the best times to go, we've got you covered. Whether you're a history buff or just looking to explore one of the world's most famous landmarks, these practical tips will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the Colosseum.
Recommended tickets to Colosseum
Tips for visiting Colosseum
1. Access for persons with physical disabilities
The Colosseum has an elevator for persons with disabilities to access the upper floor. Simply ask the staff at the ticket booth for assistance, and they will accompany you. There are also staff members on the upper floor to help. Additionally, the complex has accessible toilets for people with physical disabilities. Ask the staff for assistance in accessing these facilities.
2. There are no on-site tickets available anymore
You must buy your tickets in advance. Tickets are no longer sold on-site at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill to manage crowds. The most popular time slots can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. To ensure you get your preferred date and time, book your tickets early.
3. Free access to the Colosseum
You can visit the Colosseum for free under certain conditions. You still need to reserve your entry time and pay a €2.00 reservation fee per ticket. Free entry is available on the first Sunday of each month for all archaeological sites in Rome. However, this day is very crowded, and tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. On this day, only the first and second levels are accessible; the arena, underground area, and S.U.P.E.R sites are not included. Children under 18 and disabled visitors (plus one accompanying family member or helper) can enter for free but still need to reserve a ticket and pay the €2.00 reservation fee. If you have a city pass like the Roma Pass or Omnia card, your basic ticket is free, but you must present your city pass to gain entry.
4. Guided tours are absolutely worth it
While you can explore on your own, a guided tour offers valuable insights into the history of the Colosseum and Roman history. With a local expert leading the way, you'll get a deeper understanding of the site. Options include tours of the Colosseum Underground and Arena, express tours, and small group tours.
5. Clothing, shoes and accessories
Don’t underestimate the size of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill—they cover a lot of ground. Expect to walk a lot, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as some paths can be slippery and the rough stone can be tough on your knees. If you plan to explore Palatine Hill or the upper levels of the Colosseum, be ready for some climbing. Also, bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong midday sun, which can be intense even in winter.
6. Get an empty water bottle, and don’t carry any food
You can't bring your own water into the Colosseum, but you can bring an empty bottle and fill it at the fountains available on-site. You also aren’t allowed to carry any food inside the Colosseum. So make sure you either have a light meal before you enter, or look up restaurants around the Colosseum for a hearty meal after!
7. Best time to visit
July and August are the busiest months to visit the Colosseum, as it's peak tourism season in Rome. If you're traveling during these months, plan your visit for the middle of the week. To avoid the largest crowds, go either first thing in the morning around 8:30am, or about an hour before closing. The Colosseum is especially crowded in the middle of the day. For a slightly lesser crowd, visit between October and March.
8. Underground access
General-entry tickets and most standard tours do not include access to the Colosseum's underground area, a crucial part of its history. This underground section, known as the hypogeum, was used for staging gladiator fights, animal hunts, and other spectacles. It features a complex network of tunnels and chambers where gladiators and animals were kept before their dramatic appearances in the arena.
9. Beware of pickpockets
The Colosseum and its surrounding areas are major tourist hotspots, making them prime targets for pickpockets. To protect your belongings, be vigilant and take preventive measures. Keep your valuables—such as passports, wallets, and phones—securely on you. Use a money belt or a crossbody bag that you can easily keep an eye on. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and consider using anti-theft bags with lockable zippers. Additionally, stay alert in crowded areas and be cautious of distractions or people who may seem overly friendly.
10. Explore the surroundings
The Colosseum is just one part of Rome's rich historical tapestry. To fully appreciate the area, take time to explore the surrounding sites. The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (access to both included with your Colosseum ticket), located nearby, offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient Rome's public life, with its ruins of temples, basilicas, and government buildings. Don’t miss the Triumphal Arch of Constantine, situated near the Colosseum. This grand monument celebrates Emperor Constantine's victory and provides insight into Roman architectural and commemorative practices. For breathtaking views, head to Campidoglio Hill, designed by Michelangelo. From this vantage point, you can see panoramic views of the Roman Forum and the surrounding city.
11. Entrances
The Colosseum has three main entrances: the Main Entrance, the Group Entrance, and the Stern Entrance.
- Main Entrance: This is for individual visitors and is also where disabled visitors can access the Colosseum for free. If you have a general ticket or are visiting on your own, this is where you'll enter.
- Group Entrance: Located a few steps to the left of the Main Entrance, this gate is reserved for groups and guided tours. Depending on the line, your tour guide may use either the Main or Group Entrance.
- Stern Entrance: This entrance, which was used for Arena Floor tours, has been closed since the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have a ticket for an Arena Floor tour, you will enter through the Main or Group Entrance with your guide. From there, you'll be guided to the Stern gate from within the Colosseum for your tour of the Arena Floor.
12. Don't bring these with you
When visiting the Colosseum, avoid bringing large backpacks, wheeled suitcases, or trolleys, as these are not allowed and there is no cloakroom for storage. Instead, opt for a small backpack, handbag, or crossbody bag. For security reasons, knives and sharp objects are strictly prohibited and will be confiscated at the entrance. Additionally, spray bottles are not permitted due to previous vandalism incidents. Pets are also not allowed to ensure the comfort and safety of all visitors.
13. Avoid visiting another major site on the same day
While it might seem like a good idea to visit multiple major attractions in one day, sites like the Colosseum or the Vatican demand a lot of mental and physical energy. Trying to see more than one major site can leave you feeling exhausted and reduce your enjoyment of each location. Additionally, rushing between sites increases the risk of losing track of time or getting lost, which could cause you to miss your tour or a transportation connection. To make the most of your visit, focus on one major attraction per day.
14. Be careful on the stairs
The stairs at the Colosseum can be challenging. While climbing up is manageable, descending can be difficult due to the uneven and worn steps, which may cause you to feel off balance. The ancient steps can strain your knees, even if you don’t have any existing issues. Take your time when going down, hold onto railings if available, watch your step carefully, and be patient with the people in front of you.
